Following a record number of visitors last year, LEEA LiftEx comes to Olympia on October 16 and 17.

If your role involves operating lifting equipment in any sector – construction, oil & gas, energy, offshore, road & maritime transport, utilities, rail, renewable energy, civil engineering, entertainment, manufacturing – this is the event for you. At the show visitors will meet suppliers of the very latest lifting equipment see cutting-edge technologies, gain access to free training and keep up-to-date with the latest innovations in the industry. This year’s show will include in the region of 100 exhibiting brands, approximately 1,500 professional visitors, as well as the celebrated LEEA Awards at The Dorchester Hotel on October 16.

RiConnect Headlines at LEEA’s LiftEx 2024

RiConnect, a provider of cloudbased Software as a Service (SaaS), is the Headline Sponsor at this year’s LiftEx, Stand 50.

It represents an emphatic return to the show — the flagship event of the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) — having exhibited for the first time last year in Liverpool, and never before participating in any capacity. RiConnect will share an 8m by 6m exhibit with YOKE Industrial Corp., an industrial lifting equipment manufacturer.

A multifaceted sponsorship package offers unprecedented exposure before, during, and after the event at Olympia’s West Hall, at a time where the business is poised to digitalise the entire supply chain with its range of state-of-the-art technologies that help the industry achieve productivity, efficiency, safety, sustainability, and quality of life.

The LiftEx sponsorship is timely, as the Machinery Regulation addresses advances in technology, bringing digitalisation of the industry to the fore. YOKE, for example, now puts radio frequency identification (RFID) chips featuring RiConnect software in 95% of its range of forged products, allowing users to keep up with pre-use checks, unique identification numbers, and prepare for the move towards January 2027, when everybody is expected to be working to the new regulation.

Rob Whitehurst-Maiden, sales manager at RiConnect, said: “We wanted to show our full support for LEEA, especially as this year marks their 80th anniversary. We are also focusing more on giving our brand maximum visibility as our solutions enter a new phase of relevance to the entire industry with January 2027 fast approaching when the EU Machinery Regulation fully applies, and the Machinery Directive [2006/42/EC] is repealed.”

Leanne Whitehurst-Maiden, sales director, said: “Our fundamental value is that safety is essential; we are dedicated to simplifying and digitalising the processes around compliance and traceability for equipment management. At RiConnect we believe in the importance of LEEA to the continuous improvement of safety across the industry. Supporting LiftEx as Headline Sponsor was a compelling offer and one we couldn’t overlook, especially at this time.”

The co-location with YOKE, a Gold Sponsor, presents RiConnect with a prime opportunity to demonstrate to visitors how chips can even be embedded in a 7mm connector and 1t capacity shackle, showcasing an app and desktop site to read and capture data.

The combination drastically enhances safety and makes the exhibit relevant to anyone looking to digitalise their products or bring safety to the forefront of their organisation.

LEEA will host an Accredited Training Scheme Seminar, where free end-user training sessions will take place over the two days of the show. RiConnect, itself, held a digital seminar in Aberdeen last month (September), and has identified synergies in the demographics likely to attend at either ends of the UK market geographically.

RSS raises its profile at LiftEx 2024

Rope and Sling Specialists (RSS) will return as a lead sponsor and take a new exhibit to LiftEx 2024.

Having steadily grown its presence at the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association’s (LEEA) flagship event, RSS will again sponsor the water bottles and lanyards, while a larger hospitality area will be at the centre of a new-look stand.

The exhibit will be the same overall size as last year’s display, which was the focal point for many attendees at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool, but the concept has been revamped and built around a longer bar set against a backdrop of enhanced graphics. Lifting and lashing products will be among those given greater prominence in Olympia’s West Hall.

“We had a successful show in Liverpool last year, but we want to build on that this time. Visitors can expect a more immersive experience, with interesting visuals, supported by an expert team and the usual company hospitality. The jury is still out on the relocation to a less central [UK] venue, but we’re not participating in any negativity; we want to drive a crowd to our stand and give them a flavour of the best the industry has to offer in terms of lifting and rigging products, and the personalities that support it all,” said Alan Varney, engineering services director, RSS.

Last year, at the centre of the exhibit was a map, detailing all of the company’s national facilities, including the Gemmak Engineering fabrication site. Since then, RSS has recently opened a new depot in Glasgow, Scotland, fronted by Tony McAtee, operations manager, expanding a footprint north of the border created by its Grangemouth site.

An additional location in Netherton, West Midlands, will be opened later this year, under Paul Smith, while another depot on the South Coast is also in the pipeline, likely to be unveiled in early 2025. That will take the total to 14 national facilities.

“We continue to be strategic in where we open our premises, steadfast in our plan to position product and expertise as close to the point of use as possible. We have wanted to expand in Scotland for a while, and putting ourselves in the city of Glasgow will enable us to more efficiently deliver services to the region,” added Varney. “The Midlands site is more focused on equipment hire and serves as a hub for specialist lifting products in the middle of the country. The southern regions are generating work for our services all the time, and our existing depots are finding it a challenge to cope with that ongoing demand. All of these locations will require engineers, drivers, and hire/sales representatives.”

RSS will be represented at LiftEx 2024 by Steve Hutin, MD; Alan Varney; Paul Glover, national director, operations; and Mark Barnard, operations manager, Swansea; they will be joined by representatives of its Heathrow and Aylesford, Kent operations. The company’s LiftEx carnival will also include a presence at the LEEA Awards, on October 16, at London’s Dorchester Hotel. Visit RSS at LiftEx Stand 40.

Knowledge is key

Having been involved with wire ropes since the age of 18 and starting out by working for one of the world’s leading wire rope firms, I have gained a great deal of exposure to these complex and crucial components in our engineering world. However, I firmly believe that knowledge is key and I have been privileged enough to work with, and for, some extremely talented and knowledgeable individuals in different sectors and on a variety of applications,” says Simon Fennell, MD, Tensology.

“Having worked at Tensology for the last three years, I have been a part of the companies continued growth, and grow is what we are continuing to do. Being an employee-owned company generates a feeling of responsibility and reward throughout the team, what comes with that is, we all strive to offer the best service we can. We pride ourselves on offering totally independent and knowledgeable wire rope services, ranging from Magnetic Rope Testing (MRT) and visual inspection to Installation and socketing. We are also a LEEA accredited training provider offering our 2-day Crane Rope Examiners Course for people who have never undertaken such training, or our one day refresher course for those who just need to brush up on their existing knowledge base.

“This year has seen us go through some structural changes within the company, part of those changes has seen us employ a new technical manager into the business who has brought with them a wealth of experience, particularly in forensic investigation. This has enabled us to expand our service offering to new and existing customers and LiftEx 2024 feels like the perfect place for Tensology to launch this new service. Historically, we have undertaken failure analysis and condition assessment of in-service and retired ropes when requested by existing customers. However, we are now in a position to promote that offering to the wider market and having the capability to perform wire sample testing such as bend fatigue, torsion and tensile testing, along with residual zinc coat weight testing, it indicates an exciting time for the company as we look to grow into this area of the market. This new service fits with the profile of our company and our existing service offering and it will allow us to give the option to clients who may wish to investigate a ropes condition further when removing it from service or in some cases whilst the rope remains in service. As a company MRT is a large part of what we do and this year we have seen continued growth in this area as more sectors recognise the benefits of using this technology. Within our industry it is critical that all lifting equipment and accessories are periodically inspected, wire ropes are a major part of the lifting industry and we have witnessed first-hand the effects a damaged or deteriorated rope can have when it is not identified early enough. Wire ropes can significantly deteriorate internally, often with very little warning signs externally, this is where MRT is an invaluable asset in preventing rope failures as it can be used to identify internal deterioration, such as broken wires, corrosion and a loss in metallic area.

On both days of LiftEx 2024 our very own Barrie Mordue will be delivering a seminar on wire rope deterioration titled ‘Crane Ropes – What the Eye Can’t See’ where he will talk about the different types of internal deterioration and the impacts that may have. Last year in Liverpool, Barrie delivered a seminar on MRT, which was fully occupied and extremely well received, so book a slot early to avoid disappointment. We are very much looking forward to this year’s LiftEx and meeting up with some familiar faces, as well as forming new relationships with people and companies within our industry, it promises to be another great show on the back of last year’s successful event.

Pioneering the Future Bekaert – Ropes 360

Ropes, underappreciated technical advancement in both steel and synthetic material. Steel wire ropes have been in use for over 100 years, yet the majority of the market still relies on the 6×36 designs that are 70 years old. For some, wire ropes may seem like a commodity, but neglecting them can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Understanding the life cycle and needs of wire ropes can significantly improve the overall efficiency of many production plants, says Jordan Weston, commercial manager services, Ropes 360.

Ropes 360 backed by Bekaert, is pushing the boundaries between traditional requirements and advanced monitoring solutions. I have been involved in the rope industry since 2011. Beginning as a technical apprentice in the factory, moving to an application engineer in China, and eventually, becoming a commercial manager for Europe, overseeing rope segments or services. Steel wire ropes have become an integral part of my life, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences they have afforded me.

Ropes 360 prides itself on these similar attributes. With locations around the world and a diverse background among our technicians, we learn from each other. Recently, our two new techs from the technology centre, with backgrounds in wire rope forensics, highlight a market shift towards more remote monitoring and data-driven inspections. However, traditional tasks like installations, visual inspections, and relubrications remain essential, and the training program is integral to becoming a Ropes 360 technician.

Liftex and the LEEA awards are must-have events in our annual calendar. As a founding member of LEEA, we believe sharing good and bad practices globally is the best way to ensure workplace safety. LiftEx also provides a unique opportunity to meet customers outside of the usual work context, fostering better communication and understanding. The reports provided from Vision Tek, our flagship monitoring solution for both synthetic and steel wire ropes, can be found on our booth.

Next year, Ropes 360 aims to expand further into different global regions and continue to become the go-to provider of rope solutions. Our current remote monitoring solution, which offers a full analysis of the rope while in service, has garnered significant interest and will be further developed. The same devices are used in-house at our forensic lab for post-life analysis of rope conditions.

This year, we have ventured into drone and ultrasonic testing, but next year, we plan to introduce a product that will be the envy of every rope inspector.

Mission critical applications

Kito Crosby is the global leader of the lifting and securement industry it pioneered, and for which it continues to set the quality standard. With global engineering, manufacturing, distribution, and operations, the company provides a broad range of products and solutions for the most demanding applications. Kito Crosby’s people, products, solutions, and services have innovated the lifting and securement industry for more than 260 years. Together we lift and secure the world today, for a safer, stronger, and more productive tomorrow. Our iconic brands include Kito, Crosby, Harrington, Gunnebo Industries, and Peerless.

Kito Crosby products are proven in the field and in countless mission critical applications around the world. Each day, in our own facilities, our team members rely on our products to do their jobs safely, efficiently and sustainably. Our products are the preference of hands-on operators doing the work and of business leaders, who value their durability and lower total cost of ownership. Quality, consistency, measured across decades, doesn’t just happen. It’s the result of a challengeconvention- mindset. It’s the result of a customer-centric culture that sparks innovation and an unrelenting commitment to customer satisfaction. Kito Crosby products, people and service have set the standard in the lifting and securement industry for hundreds of years. Together raising you and the industry up.

Kito Crosby will be represented at LiftEx by James Feeney, regional sales manager, David Mullard, business development manager for Crosby Straightpoint, Peter Hird, business development manager for Crosby BlokCam, Travis Buck, sr. director sales & customer service EMEA and Ashley Hall, product specialist and trainer.

Hall has worked within the lifting industry for 31 years, 16 with Crosby and has been training for 10+ years. He is a member of the LEEA Technical Committee, an Accredited Training member and has been a board member for four years. Hope to see you at our stand n°42 at LiftEx.

Tele Radio: Elevating Lifting Operations at LiftEx 2024

Tele Radio is a global leader in the design and manufacture of industrial radio remote control systems. For decades, we’ve been providing innovative solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity across a wide range of industries.

Tele Radio is a Swedish company that specialises in safe and reliable wireless remote control systems. We have over 60 years of experience in the industry and are committed to providing highquality products and services. Tele Radio’s remote controls are used in a variety of applications, including industrial machinery, lifting cranes, and mobile hydraulics. Our products hold an enviable reputation for their performance and durability.

At LiftEx 2024, we’ll be showing a range of products suitable for the lift and hoist market, from standard handheld and waist style transmitters to fully customisable automation systems. Our latest pre-wired handheld Panther products offer enhanced safety features, improved ergonomics, and increased range. Both the transmitter and receiver in this set are well-established products within the Tele Radio range. They have a proven track record in high-risk work environments, making them highly suitable for lifting and hoisting operations involving hoists/winches, overhead cranes, gantry cranes, and similar equipment. The set prioritises safety, offering a certified stop function. It adheres to the EN 13849- 1:2015 PLd/Cat3 standard and has received external certification from a recognised independent testing institute. With the Tele Radio Panther series, operators can enjoy reduced fatigue, greater precision, and enhanced control, coupled with the convenience of plug-and-play installation.

LiftEx is the UK’s premier event for the lifting industry, attracting professionals from all corners of the sector. This prestigious showcase provides us with an unparalleled opportunity to: Showcase Our Expertise: Demonstrate our deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by lifting equipment operators. Connect with Industry Leaders: Network with key decision-makers, engineers, and industry experts. Highlight Our Innovation: Introduce our latest products and demonstrate how they can revolutionise lifting operations. Strengthen Our Brand: Reinforce our position as a trusted partner in the lifting industry. Our Focus on Safety and Efficiency: Safety and efficiency are core principles at Tele Radio. Our radio remote control systems are designed with the highest safety standards in mind, incorporating features such as emergency stop buttons, frequency hopping technology, user authentication, and builtin redundancy.

In addition to safety, we’re committed to providing solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity. Our radio remote control systems offer intuitive user interfaces, customisable configurations, and remote monitoring and diagnostics.

As we look ahead, Tele Radio remains dedicated to delivering innovative, reliable, and user-friendly radio remote control solutions. We’re continually investing in research and development to stay ahead of the curve and meet the evolving needs of our customers.

LiftEx is a fitting culmination to a busy exhibition season in the UK & Ireland and we’re looking forward to reinforcing our position as a market leader in the industry.

Last year, Tele Radio had a very successful presence at LiftEx in Liverpool, showcasing our commitment to providing cutting-edge radio remote control solutions and outstanding local service. We look forward to building on this momentum at LiftEx 2024 and continuing to strengthen our relationships with industry professionals.

We invite you to visit our booth at LiftEx 2024 to learn more about our latest innovations and discover how Tele Radio can elevate your lifting operations. Our team of experts will be on hand to answer your questions and provide personalised guidance.

Cromox invests in new machinery

Ketten Wälder has been manufacturing chain and chain products for over 75 years in Bavaria. The current CEO Franz Maximilian Wälder is the fourth generation of the Wälder family to run the organisation and the business has invested heavily in recent years to manufacture quality stainless steel lifting products only.

New state-of-the-art chain making machines and investment in its staff has resulted in improved efficient production programmes. This has enabled Ketten Wälder to expand with a path to expand globally.

Outside of a successful European footprint Ketten Wälder partnered with BRIDCO in Australia, followed by the creation of Cromox USA. Both arrangements growing the global cromox brand further.

Continuing the global growth Ketten Wälder is proud to announce its products are now available to the UK market through cromox UK. cromox UK is solely owned by the Ketten Wälder group and headed up by Chris Wiggins, business development manager. Wiggins has over 30 years of chain making experience and brings a wealth of market and product experience.

Recent product investment and testing has resulted in the introduction of the cromox range of stainless-steel hoists and trolleys. These are manufactured with the highest quality materials to provide a reliable and safe working product.

They are specially designed for the most demanding industrial applications and offer solutions for a wide range of requirements. The products benefit from the company’s many years of experience and technical expertise, guaranteeing optimum performance in the most challenging environments.

The cromox stainless steel hoists are extremely reliable and safe due to their design and robust construction using the highest of quality materials. Each product undergoes rigorous quality control and in house testing in our Lloyd’s Register certified proofing facility, this ensures compliance with international safety standards. The integrated safety features minimise the risk of accidents.

Ketten Wälder offers a wide range of hoists and hoist-trolleys designed for working in the harshest environments with load capacities up to 2 tons.